Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 in their final Group L match, with both teams qualifying for the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup. The match, played at Philadelphia Stadium in rainy conditions, saw Croatia take the lead through Petar Sucic in the first half before Ghana equalized via Derrick Luckassen. Nikola Vlasic scored the winner with a header in the 83rd minute.
Croatia's Performance and Modric's Impact
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic praised his team's performance, stating, "I congratulate my players. It was a difficult match but Croatia played excellently. We are back to where we were eight years ago again." Luka Modric, at 41 years old, became the oldest player to record a World Cup assist, setting up Vlasic's goal. Dalic added, "Modric was a role model of how things should be. He is aware that this is his last World Cup and he is trying to do his best to say goodbye."
Ghana's First Knockout Appearance Since 2010
Ghana advanced to the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, despite the loss. Coach Carlos Queiroz expressed mixed feelings about the expanded World Cup format, saying, "I do believe that what really has huge value is what is rare. The number of teams qualifying can turn this competition into a vulgar, ordinary competition." Queiroz made tactical changes at halftime, leading to Ghana's equalizer, but they could not hold off Croatia's late push.
Match Highlights
Petar Sucic opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a low shot from 30 yards that deflected through defender Marvin Senaya's legs. Ghana equalized in the 73rd minute when Ernest Nuamah's free-kick was headed by Luckassen, initially ruled offside but overturned by VAR. Vlasic's header from Modric's corner in the 83rd minute secured the win. Croatia's Mario Pasalic hit the post late, and Modric made a crucial defensive stop in added time.
Group L Standings
The victory gave Croatia second place in Group L, while Ghana advanced in third place. Both teams now look ahead to the round of 32, with Croatia aiming to replicate their 2018 World Cup success. Dalic emphasized the importance of moving forward, stating, "To qualify was our first step, now we need to forget it."
